2 Cents Worth of Feedback
By Staff -- Gifts & Decorative Accessories, 5/1/2007 1:52:00 PM
Two weeks ago, we asked readers what kind of product they wanted to see more of at market. Overwhelmingly, poll-takers voted "stuff for men." The results inspired comment from Maine-based rep Andy Enright:
"I just wanted to offer my perspective on the comments about ‘too much to see already’ in reference to the shows. While numerous categories exist within the gift and toy market, my impression is that there is an overall lack of innovation and creativity at shows. One can walk an aisle and see similar products in booth after booth with little distinction or uniqueness between various lines. In that sense, I would agree that there is too much of the same, which on the one hand offers the buyer more choices, but theoretically cuts the wholesale market into even thinner slices. There are a few unusual and innovative and, dare I say, original offerings that can break the monotony; vendors who offer unique salable products that stand out and can attract a new buyer. I saw several that ranged from the entertaining (pro sports checkers games pitting rival teams against one another using helmets/hats with logos as playing pieces) to the amusing (flying monkeys that are catapulted from the fingertips). But they were few and far between. There is too much of the same, but not enough variety, in my opinion.
As a male rep, I see very little aimed at male buyers. Sports-themed items abound, but in my opinion there is a void in the variety of offerings for men.However, I am not sure what products could be offered within the parameters of our industry that would appeal to a majority of men as the end user. Stereotypically (and I fit right into this mix!), spectator and participatory sports, electronic gadgetry, outdoor activity, cars and women are what most men spend their time and money pursuing. I’m not sure the typical gift shop would even want to have a ‘men’s section’ that would try to rival Bass Pro Shops, Brookstone or Sharper Image.It simply may not be effective to target men as significant end users in our market.
I’d be interested to hear what others may think.”
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Kerusso Innovative TOOLS ‘N GEAR have done very well, so I just wanted to share some of the items with you. Mini multi tools are handy for men and appropriate gifts for those who enjoy puttering around their house, car or boat. Mini Multi-Tool This 9-in-1 Multi-Tool is loaded with every gadget imaginable. It is cased in heavy-duty steel and decorated with a simple cross. All these tools in one amazing package: Powerful L.E.D. flashlight, needle-nose pliers, wire cutter, pocket knife, Phillips Screwdriver, standard screwdriver, saw and bottle opener with a Mini Multi-Tool Carrying Case. MSRP $8.99. Package: 12 pieces in a free countertop display. Heirloom Quality Pocket Knife The Pocket Knife is a classic gift for any guy on your shopping list, packaged complete in a printed gift tin. This heirloom quality knife is crafted from stainless steel. A stylized wood handle is inset into the steel body in a contemporary cross design. This is one gift he’ll really use! Blister packed for in-store safety and convenience, too. The Pocket Knife features easy-open action and a handy pocket clip. MSRP $14.99. Package: 12 pieces in a free countertop display. Kinetic Flashlight Package Kerusso’s Kinetic Flashlight never needs batteries, has no bulb to burn out and it's impact resistant! Your male customers will want to throw one in their trunk immediately. It’ll work the next time they need it, even if that’s months or years from now! A fully charged light can run for an amazing amount of time. Don't worry about the charge running out - just give it a shake! MSRP $9.99. Package includes 12 pieces in 2 free countertop displays. Screwdriver Set Super smart, this Screwdriver Set features a 7-piece bit set, a 5-piece 1/4" socket set, a ratcheting handle with comfort grip, and a hand holster that holds it all together in a truly practical way. Keep one in the car, one in the kitchen, and one in the workshop. MSRP: $9.99. Package of 12 pieces in 2 free countertop displays, or use on your Centurion System from Kerusso. Build On the Rock 25’ Tape Measure The durable Build on the Rock Tape Measure is ready to go in a 12-piece package with 2 free countertop displays! It includes a long life 1" X 25 foot nylon coated blade, magnetic tip, durable rubberized housing, 3-way locking mechanism, belt clip, nylon lanyard. MSRP $9.99. Display your Tape Measures in a free countertop display or on Kerusso’s Centurion System. Build On the Rock Inspirational Multi-Tool Everybody needs one of these - a tool kit that fits in a pocket. Find all these tools in one place: wire cutters, 3 straight screwdrivers, a fish hook remover, fish scaler, drop point blade, bottle opener, can opener, pliers, knife, ruler and file - handy and ready for action! This 12 piece Build On The Rock multi tool package comes with a free colorful merchandiser and it can also be used on your Centurion System from Kerusso. MSRP $11.99 About Kerusso: Founded by president and CEO Vic Kennett in 1987, Kerusso occupies over 60,000 square feet of art, design and manufacturing facilities in Northwest Arkansas. The company is the world’s leading designer and producer of Christian-themed apparel and continues to grow and expand their product offerings that include jewelry, gifts, tools and accessories. More information is available at Kerusso’s website, www.kerusso.com, or by calling 1-800-424-0943. Hope this helps! Marianne Graves Kerusso Inc. 800-424-0943 Ext. 272 |
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